Brain injuries and young athletes

Doctors recommend a baseline test before hitting the field.

Summer is in full gear and school sport tryouts are fast approaching. As more research and information comes in about the dangers of concussion, experts are advising athletes of all ages to take greater precaution against head injuries.

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a bump or blow to the head. Every concussion is serious. It can change the way the brain normally functions and it takes time to heal.

Heads Up!

CONCUSSION IN HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS
A FACT SHEET FOR ATHLETES

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury that:

• Is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body.
• Can change the way your brain normally works.
• Can occur during practices or games in any sport or recreational activity.
• Can happen even if you haven’t been knocked out.
• Can be serious even if you’ve just been “dinged” or “had your bell rung.”

All concussions are serious. A concussion can affect your ability to do schoolwork and other activities (such as playing video games, working on a computer, studying, driving, or exercising). Most people with a concussion get better, but it is important to give your brain time to heal

Sports physicals are just the first step

Each year, parents of student athletes schedule the required sports physicals in time for their student to get in the game. But what if follow-up is needed? What if there’s a sports-related injury?

At McLaren Macomb’s Athletic Medicine Institute, our team is prepared to provide sports physicals as well as ongoing physician care to help ensure your student athlete stays healthy and active. McLaren Macomb’s Athletic Medicine Institute includes orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, cardiologists, rehabilitation physicians and primary care doctors. And as Macomb County’s first verified trauma center, we also offer expert trauma and emergency care for any sports-related injury or condition.